Collen Sedibe
By Mpho Moloi
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Mpumalanga, led by Provincial Chairperson Collen Sedibe, has slammed the recent appointment of the Nkomazi Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), calling it irregular and unfair. In a statement released on 8 May 2025, Sedibe rejected the appointment, claiming it was riddled with conflicts of interest and failed to follow proper procedures. The EFF has demanded that the Premier of Mpumalanga reverse the decision immediately, threatening further action if their call is ignored.
A Controversial Appointment Sparks Outrage
On 6 May 2025, the office of the Premier announced the approval of the new Nkomazi SEZ CEO. Just two days later, the EFF fired back, accusing the appointment process of being flawed from start to finish. According to Sedibe, the newly appointed CEO is a sitting board member of the Nkomazi SEZ. This means she was part of the very board that conducted the interviews, essentially appointing herself to the top job.
Breaking Down the Alleged Irregularities
Sedibe outlined several specific issues with the hiring process, painting a picture of what the EFF calls “administrative injustice.” Here’s what they found:
- Conflict of Interest and Self-Appointment
The fact that the CEO is a current board member raises red flags. Sedibe claims that being interviewed by her own peers gave her an upper hand, skewing the process in her favour. - Ignoring the Advert’s Requirements
The job advert clearly stated that candidates needed ten years’ experience as Senior Managers and five years as Executive Managers. However, the EFF alleges that the board shortlisted a Manager—a far junior position—while leaving out General Managers who met the criteria. Sedibe called this a blatant disregard for the rules, with no explanation provided by the board. - Unfair Scoring and No Competency Tests
The EFF says the board gave their fellow member much higher scores than other candidates, despite her not being the most qualified. Even more concerning, none of the candidates—including the appointee—went through a competency assessment. This step is mandatory under the Public Service Regulations Act for such senior roles, making the process legally questionable. - An Inside Job?
Sedibe didn’t hold back, alleging that the appointment was a stitch-up between the board and the Member of the Executive Council (MEC). He believes they planned all along to hand the CEO role to one of their own, calling it “unfair, dishonest and not in line with the spirit of openness and transparency.”
Evidence in Hand
The EFF isn’t just making claims—they say they’ve got the proof to back them up. Sedibe revealed that the party has the full list of applicants for the CEO position, along with the CVs of the four shortlisted candidates. After reviewing these documents, the EFF is “fully satisfied that the reported irregularities are factual and substantiated.” This evidence, they argue, makes their case airtight.
Why the Nkomazi SEZ Matters
The Nkomazi SEZ isn’t just another government project—it’s a big deal for Mpumalanga’s economy. Located in Komatipoort, near the border with Mozambique, it’s part of the Maputo Development Corridor. This strategic spot connects South Africa to export markets in South East Africa, the Indian Ocean Rim, and the Far East through Maputo Port. The SEZ is pitched as an “Agro-Processing Hub” powered by green energy, with added services like warehousing and logistics.
The goal? To draw in investment, boost manufacturing, and create jobs. The CEO’s role is central to making this happen, steering the SEZ towards success. That’s why the EFF is so fired up about getting the appointment right—a weak or unqualified leader could derail the whole project.
The Bigger Picture: Economic Stakes
Mpumalanga’s economy relies heavily on sectors like mining, agriculture, and tourism. The Nkomazi SEZ is meant to diversify that mix, bringing industrial growth and new opportunities. Experts say a well-run SEZ could transform the region, cutting unemployment and lifting local communities. But if the CEO hiring process is tainted, it risks scaring off investors who want to see clean governance and skilled leadership.
A flawed appointment could also damage trust in the government’s broader Special Economic Zones Policy, which aims to spark industrial growth across South Africa. For Nkomazi, the stakes are high—thousands of potential jobs and millions in investment hang in the balance.
EFF’s Ultimatum to the Premier
The EFF isn’t mincing words. They’ve called on the Premier to scrap the appointment “with immediate effect.” Sedibe warned that if the Premier doesn’t act, the party will take the matter to “the relevant authorities.” While he didn’t specify who that might be—perhaps the Public Protector or a court—it’s clear the EFF is ready to escalate.
“This appointment is a clear example of administrative injustice and a lack of transparency. The people of Mpumalanga deserve better,” Sedibe said. He added, “We will not stand idly by while the interests of the few are prioritized over the needs of the many.”
The EFF’s Growing Voice in Mpumalanga
This isn’t the EFF’s first clash with the Mpumalanga government. Under Sedibe’s leadership, the party has built a reputation as a fierce watchdog, calling out corruption and mismanagement. Their influence is growing—just look at their win in Ward 11, Nkomazi, in October 2022, where they took 57.7% of the vote. It was their first ward victory in the province, signaling that people are listening.
The Nkomazi SEZ fight fits into their bigger mission: holding power to account and pushing for fairness. For many in Mpumalanga, the EFF’s stance resonates, especially in a province where jobs and economic hope are hard to come by.
What’s Missing From the Story?
While Sedibe’s statement is detailed, some pieces of the puzzle are still unclear. For one, the identity of the new CEO hasn’t been revealed, leaving questions about her background and qualifications. The Premier’s office also hasn’t responded to the EFF’s allegations yet—did they know about these issues when they approved the appointment? And what about the other candidates? Were they aware of the alleged bias, and will they challenge the process?
There’s also the timing. The SEZ has been in the works for years, with plans dating back to at least 2018. Delays have already slowed progress—could this hiring mess push it back further? The public deserves answers, and the EFF’s push might force them into the open.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 103 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: “”Down with the GNU”: Solly Mapaila Slams Ramaphosa and Rejects Government of National Unity at Workers’ Day Rally”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Central-News-Issue-103.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube